Intellectual Property Law is the method by which law seeks to regulate the commercial use of ideas, innovation and culture. Statute law has created property in the tangible artefacts produced from ideas. Patents, Designs and Trademarks have legislated systems of registration while copyright in Australia is governed by statute, but is also the subject of extensive international agreements. The unit also covers other forms of intellectual property such as Geographical Indications, Plant Breeders' Rights, and the protection of confidential information. Intellectual property has been profoundly affected by changes in technology with which law has had difficulty in keeping pace, yet ironically it is also intellectual property law which seeks to regulate this technology. This unit (BLB3129) of study uses problem based learning to explore the practical application of intellectual property law and the social and ethical issues which arise from it, suggesting possibilities for further development.

Unit details

Location:
Study level:
Undergraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
BLB3129

Prerequisites

BLB1101 - Australian Legal System in Context

BLB1114 - Legal Research Methods

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Elucidate a coherent theoretical and technical knowledge with depth in the area of Intellectual Property Law to a range of audiences;  
  2. Advocate solutions to complex problems with judgement and responsibility in advising and acting in matters involving Intellectual Property Law;  
  3. Provide specialist advice and functions with responsibility and accountability in the area of Intellectual Property Law related to local and global settings;  
  4. Critically analyse and evaluate information to complete a range of activities in the study of Intellectual Property Law; and  
  5. Adapt the necessary knowledge and skills to analyse, generate and transmit innovative solutions to unpredictable and sometimes complex 21st century problems in the area of Intellectual Property Law.  

Assessment

Assessment type Description Grade
Test Online quiz 10%
Assignment Problem based questions 40%
Examination Problem based Exam 50%

Required reading

Intellectual Property Law : Lexis Nexis Study Guide 2nd
Criag Collins and Heather Forrest; 2013
Lexis Nexis

Intellectual and Industrial Property Law 2nd
Dr William Van Caenegem, 2019
Lexis Nexis

Lexis Nexis QRC
Dr Alpana Roy
Lexis Nexis

Where to next?

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following courses. Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course.

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